In 2019, Dylan Adams, a freshman at Brother Martin High School, was selected to represent his school as the Hancock Whitney Junior Captain of the game versus Minnesota. This program selects young fans to participate in the coin toss and other pre-game activities in partnership with the New Orleans Saints. What began as a unique game-day experience turned into the spark that ignited a passion for leadership, service, and professional growth.
"I took it as a great leadership opportunity—to be a face known around the school by teachers, students, and coaches," he recalls. "It helped me become familiar with others and made me someone people could approach and recognize."
Now, six years later, he's come full circle.
“I'm proud to now represent Brother Martin High School as an intern for the same bank that selected me as a Hancock Whitney Junior Captain during my freshman year. It is a surreal experience and makes being a Junior Captain a foreshadowing moment for where I am today.”
Currently pursuing a degree in Finance at the University of New Orleans, Dylan was selected for the 2025 Cohort of the Hancock Whitney Corporate Internship Program. He interned in the Credit Analysis department. Throughout the 12-week program, Dylan engaged in hands-on projects across various departments, received focused technical and professional development, and benefited from mentorship and volunteer opportunities that supported growth and potential career pathways at Hancock Whitney.
A Launchpad for Leadership
That early introduction to leadership through the Junior Captain program opened doors. Dylan went on to become a Student Ambassador at Brother Martin, lead campus events, and captained the powerlifting team. The confidence he gained helped him embrace new opportunities and apply those lessons beyond the classroom.
"Being a Junior Captain at such a young age prepared me to accept big opportunities, even when they felt intimidating," he said. "It taught me to lead with integrity and show up for others."
Learning from Both Sides of the Brand
"Now that I'm on the 'other side,' I see the people who make this culture what it is. At 14, I couldn't fully appreciate the thought and care that goes into recognizing student leaders. Being a part of that now is humbling."
From credit training to networking across departments, Dylan has embraced every learning opportunity.
"The biggest lesson I've learned is to listen to others—whether it's interns from different backgrounds, professionals across the bank, or my manager, Mr. Chris Miller, who's been with Hancock Whitney for nearly 45 years. There's always something valuable to learn."
Looking Ahead
This internship has been more than just a resume builder—it's been a launchpad for what's next.
"After the internship ends, I'll be continuing with Hancock Whitney as a full-time teller while I finish my degree," he shared. "Eventually, I'd love to move into lending or human resources—two roles that both represent the brand and help others succeed."
Whether he's greeting customers in the branch or assisting clients as a future lender or HR professional, one thing is sure: Dylan is committed to making a lasting impression.
"I want customers to walk away from Hancock Whitney knowing exactly what we're capable of—not just in service, but in how we treat people—with a smile, good culture, and efficiency."
A Message to Future Leaders
Reflecting on his journey, he offers a simple but powerful reminder:
"Never underestimate the value of what you do and experience in your life, even at a young age."
For Dylan, the Junior Captain program was more than a title; it was the beginning of something much bigger.
"This opportunity means the world to me. Being selected as a Junior Captain and now as a Corporate Intern has been an incredible honor. I'm excited to represent this company in a full-time role and carry those same values forward."